Relaxed 11-Day France Road Trip from Metz to Strasbourg and Mulhouse

Your relaxed road trip through France starts when you reach the incredible city of Metz, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Metz and begin your adventure in France.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Palais du Gouverneur, a remarkable palace where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 482 reviews.

Find your way to your hotel in Metz. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in France. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Metz.

Enjoy a delicious meal at CHEZ BAPTISTE, a top-rated dining destination in Metz. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Buffalo Grill Metz, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at L'Aloyau. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Metz this evening.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Metz.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Les BerThoM Metz, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Le Fo'Rhum is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Aux Paraiges is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in France. Enjoy your first taste of Metz as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across France, you’ll go deep into Metz, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Metz, and meet locals along the way!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Metz Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,783 visitors.

Museum of La Cour d'Or is another popular attraction you could visit today. This museum has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,301 visitors.

Germans' Gate is also highly recommended by travelers. This city gate has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,520 visitors.

Zoo d'Amnéville is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This zoo is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 15,712 reviews.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Metz, its culture, and people. So for a more meaningful travel experience in the city, we recommend you join one of the most popular tours available for your relaxed road trip across France.

Exploring the food culture in Metz offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Santa Maria, a highly-rated dining destination in Metz. If you're eager to try something different, consider Vivian's Pub Fairy, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at La Goulue. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Metz this evening.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at 3.96 Kaffe, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Bar Saint-Jacques offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, La Taverne du Graoully provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in France!

On day 3 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in France. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in France.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Metz and set your GPS to Strasbourg. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 44 min. Upon reaching Strasbourg, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Jardin de l'esplanade de Metz. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Metz, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,475 visitors.

Centre Pompidou-Metz is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 5,478 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction. It’s estimated that around 552,000 people visit this art museum every year.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Jean-Marie Pelt Gardens - Seille Park. Visitors have rated this park an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 1,632 reviews.

Upon your arrival in Gravelotte, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Museum of the War of 1870 and Annexation. This museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Gravelotte, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 670 visitors.

In the city of Strasbourg, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in France.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in France, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Strasbourg.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at La Cloche à Fromage RESTAURANT, a top-rated dining spot in Strasbourg. If you're in the mood for something new, try Le Cannibale, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Jeannette and the Cycleux. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Strasbourg.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Strasbourg and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Le Michel - Café - Brasserie after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Le Douanier for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Cathedral Beer Academy is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in France!

Day 4 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Strasbourg, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in France are extraordinary.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Cathedral of Our Lady of Strasbourg. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 55,268 visitors.

When you’re finished at Cathedral of Our Lady of Strasbourg, head to place Kléber. This one-of-a-kind square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 11,963 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Petite France. This neighborhood is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 2,245 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Barrage Vauban. This bridge is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,371 visitors.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Strasbourg Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art. This famous art museum welcomes around 150,000 visitors annually and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,634 travelers.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across France by joining a traveler-approved tour in Strasbourg. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Strasbourg that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in France more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Strasbourg to find the best options for you!

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at Hôtel Athena Restaurant & Spa Strasbourg, an iconic dining spot in Strasbourg. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Café Bretelles - Petite France, a popular restaurant in Strasbourg. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of La Hache, a hidden gem nestled in Strasbourg. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Strasbourg.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting A Maze In - 1er Live Escape Game de Strasbourg after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Le Grincheux, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Les BerThoM Strasbourg also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in France!

Day 5 of your relaxed road trip through France means 24 hours of making the best memories in Strasbourg. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the city of Strasbourg!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Parc de l'Orangerie. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 15,139 reviews.

Continue your journey at Alsatian Museum. This museum is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,019 travelers from near and far.

Strasbourg is also the home of Parc de l'Étoile. This park has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 7,619 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Le Vaisseau. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,453 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Parc de la Citadelle. With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 3,573 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this park.

Exploring one unique site after another provides you the much-needed variety during your leisurely self-drive tour across France. But to satisfy your curiosity or need for adventure, we recommend you add excursions in today’s agenda. You have a great selection of popular activities to choose from in France.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of France. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Strasbourg, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at The Key Bar - Krutenau, an iconic dining spot in Strasbourg. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Au Crocodile, a popular restaurant in Strasbourg. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Café Atlantico, a hidden gem nestled in Strasbourg. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Strasbourg’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in France.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Café Grognon, known for its inviting atmosphere. L'Alchimiste is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in France!

On day 6 of your relaxed road trip across France, you’ll explore the area around Natzwiller, where you’ll be staying for another 2 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Natzwiller will make you fall even more in love with the village and uniqueness of France.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Strasbourg, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Natzwiller may take around 55 min. Upon your arrival in Natzwiller, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Struthof. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,598 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to La Petite-Pierre and set your GPS to Wingen-sur-Moder. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 15 min. Upon reaching Wingen-sur-Moder, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Musée Lalique. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,826 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Haegen, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of La Petite-Pierre. Your travel time is around 33 min.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like North Vosges Regional Natural Reserve. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,405 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Strasbourg and your accommodation.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Strasbourg, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant Gurtlerhoft, an iconic dining spot in Strasbourg. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of La Petite Mairie - Le Bistrot, a popular restaurant in Strasbourg. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restaurant Le Kuhn, a hidden gem nestled in Strasbourg. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Strasbourg’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in France.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in France!

On day 7 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in the city of Strasbourg and visit amazing attractions in France that travel enthusiasts from around the world often include in their itineraries. Today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in France.

Set your GPS to Kintzheim and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 40 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Kintzheim beckons with new experiences!

Your sightseeing of the day begins at The Eagle Park, a remarkable zoo where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,739 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at La montagne des singes. This zoo has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 11,888 travelers.

Saint-Nabor’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Strasbourg behind. This drive usually takes around 49 min. Saint-Nabor welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make The chapel tears of Mont Saint-Odile your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,833 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Selestat, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Upon arrival in Selestat, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg. This extraordinary castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 26,931 visitors.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Strasbourg.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Dubliners, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Oh my Goodness café offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss La Fignette. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Strasbourg.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Strasbourg.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in France!

Day 8 of your relaxed road trip across France promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the town of Colmar and drive in the direction of the city of Mulhouse for some laid-back sightseeing.

When you’ve had your share of Strasbourg, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Colmar. Your travel time is around 1 hour 1 min.

Kick off the day at Parc du Champ de Mars, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,547 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit PETIT TRAIN TOURISTIQUE de COLMAR (VERT) - TRAIN'S. PETIT TRAIN TOURISTIQUE de COLMAR (VERT) - TRAIN'S is a sightseeing destination with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 3,314 reviews.

Unterlinden Museum is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This art museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,409 visitors. In a single year, this art museum hosts approximately 294,000 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit St Martin's Church. This church is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,904 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Petite Venise in Colmar, a famous neighborhood in Colmar. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 39,311 travelers.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Mulhouse. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in France by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

Exploring the food culture in Mulhouse offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Make sure to reserve a table at Volfoni Mulhouse, an iconic dining spot in Mulhouse. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Winstub Factory, a popular restaurant in Mulhouse. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Au Bureau Mulhouse, a hidden gem nestled in Mulhouse. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Mulhouse. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Shamrock, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Pub Murphy's offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, La Quille provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Colmar can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in France!

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in France continues on day 9, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of France and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Gerbépal and beyond. With 1 night left in Mulhouse, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the village.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Gérardmer and set your GPS to Gerbépal. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 12 min. Upon reaching Gerbépal, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Petale de bougie. This extraordinary point of interest is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 355 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Saint Die Des Vosges.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to La Bresse-Hohneck. This ski resort is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 5,088 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Gérardmer, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Gerbépal may take around 12 min. Upon your arrival in Gerbépal, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Park Gerardmer. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,697 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Mulhouse and your accommodation.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in France, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Mulhouse.

Make sure to book a table at Les Saveurs Du Liban, a popular restaurant in Mulhouse. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Mulhouse at L'Entrecôte de Mulhouse, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Restaurant Il Cortile | Étoilé Michelin. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Mulhouse tonight.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Les 3 Singes - Mulhouse. Alternatively, go to Le Pub Fiction, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, The Tavern of the Teutonic Knights provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Mulhouse as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through France with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in France!

Day 10 of your self-drive tour in France is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll start your day in the city of Nancy and end it in the town of Villers-lès-Nancy. You’ll stay in Metz for 1 night. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in France.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Nancy. This car ride takes around 17 min.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Place Stanislas, Place de la Carrière and Place d'Alliance in Nancy. Previous visitors have rated this architectural ensemble an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 27,905 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Mulhouse, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Laxou. Your travel time is around 2 hours 30 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Saint Mary Park of Nancy. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,173 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Pont-à-Mousson. This car ride takes around 33 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Lorraine Regional Natural Park. This regional natural park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 6,279 reviews.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Metz in this laid-back road trip in France. You'll stay here for 1 night.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Savor the flavors at Heureux comme Alexandre, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurant Quintessence beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Au Coeur du Liban. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Metz tonight.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Metz’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in France.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, La Quille offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Le Troubadour is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. La Jehanne is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in France!

Day 11 of your relaxed road trip in France is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Metz.

Make the most of your final day in France by visiting Metz’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in France. Take home a piece of France with these souvenirs, keeping your adventures close.

If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.

Unwind and look back at the past 11 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Metz or just grab something light to keep you going.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Les Copains d'abord, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Metz and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 11-day relaxed road trip in France is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.